Clippers Dominate Nuggets | Game 3
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INGLEWOOD, Calif. —
The Los Angeles Clippers dominate Nuggets Game 3, cruising to a 117-83 win at the new Intuit Dome. With this commanding performance, they now lead the series 2-1. Kawhi Leonard led the charge with 21 points and 11 rebounds. James Harden added 20 points in front of a packed, energized home crowd.
Clippers Seize Control Early | Clippers Blowout Nuggets
After two tight games in Denver, the Clippers wasted no time. They surged ahead in the second quarter and never looked back. Their defense tightened. Their offense clicked. Most importantly, their energy was unmatched.
“It ain’t over because we had a blowout,” said head coach Tyronn Lue. “We have to back this up.”
Homecourt Energy at the Intuit Dome | Game 3 Clippers Win
The game marked the Clippers’ first playoff matchup at their brand-new arena. The crowd at Intuit Dome was loud, passionate, and fully behind the team. Some fans wore horse hats to tease Nikola Jokic, a known horse enthusiast.
“It was crackin’. It was loud. Just how I expected it to be,” said Harden.
Jokic Shines, But Nuggets Struggle – Leonard and Harden Lead
Nikola Jokic finished with another triple-double. He scored 23 points, pulled down 13 rebounds, and handed out 13 assists. Jamal Murray also scored 23. However, the rest of the team failed to keep pace. | Clippers blowout Nuggets
“This wasn’t our standard,” said interim coach David Adelman. “We’ll be better Saturday.”
Clippers Dominate Every Facet
The Clippers outscored Denver 23-2 across the end of the first and the start of the second quarter. Harden scored 11 during that stretch. LA hit 18 three-pointers to Denver’s seven. They also won the rebounding battle 48-38. The bench stepped up too, outscoring the Nuggets’ reserves 31-6. | Game 3 Clippers win
“Everybody contributed,” said Leonard. “Denver’s tough. They’ve been here before. We need to stay focused and keep playing together.”
Denver Faces Injury Issues
Denver dealt with more than just poor shooting. Russell Westbrook exited with left foot inflammation. Michael Porter Jr., still recovering from a shoulder injury, was limited to seven points.
A Nod to Clippers History
The game brought out familiar faces. Former Clippers Chris Paul and Patrick Beverley watched from the stands. Beverley wore a Zubac jersey. Meanwhile, DeAndre Jordan played five minutes for Denver. | Clippers Dominate Nuggets Game 3
What’s Next?
Game 4 tips off Saturday, again at the Intuit Dome. The Clippers will try to take a 3-1 lead. Denver, on the other hand, hopes to reset and respond. AP NBA Report | Explore Intuit Dome
EXPLORE FURTHER: Darius Garland Sprained Toe for Game 4 Injury Concerns
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